Thanks to Niego Real Estate, block after block in Clearing and Garfield are decked out each year in red, white and blue. Residents are asked to volunteer to pick up flags and decorate their whole block. --File photo
Niego Real Estate salutes America again
Popular flag program underway
By Tim Hadac
Clearing and Garfield Ridge residents who want to decorate their blocks in red, white and blue this Independence Day are encouraged to contact Niego Real Estate and reserve a supply of U.S. flags at no charge.
Thanks to Niego Real Estate, block after block in Clearing and Garfield are decked out each year in red, white and blue. Residents are asked to volunteer to pick up flags and decorate their whole block. –File photo
The popular program to promote patriotism and community pride is now in its 29th year, according to Liana Karnelski, a Niego assistant who staffs the front desk at the busy realty office, 6625 W. Archer.
Residents are advised to call or text (773) 586-9600 and indicate which block (or blocks) they volunteer to decorate.
Flags may be picked up June 30 through July 3. Traditionally, the Niego flags are placed in the ground, one per house, up and down blocks.
The annual drive is a major undertaking for the company, under the supervision of Paul Hendershott, managing broker/owner at Niego. Some 15,000 flags are purchased and given away annually. The giveaway proved especially popular last year, as people looked for signs of reassurance during the uncertainty of the pandemic.
“We love doing it, and we love the response we get,” Karnelski said. “We hear stories from people who say they distributed the flags years ago, when they were children, and now they are doing it with children of their own. We even have elderly grandparents picking up flags. I think it shows what a nice community this is, and we’re happy to be a part of it.”
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I would like flags for my block which is 5845 w. 63rd Street